Ginseng is a perennial herb that has two varieties, the Asiatic ginseng and the American ginseng. Both of these species are cultivated for the root where the medicinal value is greater compared to its leaves. The Asian ginseng has been used by the Chinese as a drug plant for over thousands of years because of its curative powers for impotence.

Based on research, medicinal power of ginseng seems to be excellent because it has a holistic effect on every system of the body. Its influence on libido has gained much attention over the years paralleled with mushrooming researches focusing on sexual dysfunction cures and boosting libido. Research on natural ingredients like ginseng and gingko has opened the market for herbal or natural products as alternative medicines.

The principle of libido enhancement is based on increasing blood flow to the sensitive organs like the genitals. Like other substances that heighten sexual drives, ginseng helps in the release of nitric oxide in areas such as the penile tissues.

A good blood flow to this organ facilitates the ability to initiate an erection and sustain it for superior sexual performance. In women, blood flow to the clitoris, makes this erectile tissue sensitive, enhancing sexual desire and quality of orgasms.

STUDIES ON Panax Ginseng SUGGEST:

Psychologically, physically, and hormonally adapt to stress and fatigue

One well done 2002 double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study done in Korea looked at 45 men with moderate to severe erectile dysfunction. It took only 8 weeks for improvement in the scores on erectile performance, sexual satisfaction and other key measure for those men using Ginseng. [1] A similar study five years later on 60 men with erectile dysfunction found significant improvement in just 12 weeks in the areas of “rigidity, penetration and maintenance of erection” when patients were treated with three times daily routines of 1000 mg of Ginseng. [2]

Ginseng likely does this through several pathways with the most direct being stimulation of nitric oxide production. [6] Of course, nitric oxide is the magic chemical that relaxes your penile arteries and allows blood to flow in. Any increase in nitric oxide will likely improve erectile dysfunction and put a smile on your and your partner’s face.

What are the odds that Ginseng can improve your erectile dysfunction?  One older study showed that 60% of men were satisfied with sex and firm erections with Ginseng as opposed to 30% without. [3] This is almost two thirds of the participants that were helped by Gingeng!

The study authors summarized by saying that “in the group receiving ginseng, changes in early detumescence and erectile parameters such as penile rigidity and girth, libido and patient satisfactions were significantly higher than that of other groups”.  In other words, improvements were so strong that the actual thickness of the erect penis and the “hardness factor” were actually improved.

According to the research, Red Ginseng is better at alleviating psychological rather than physical fatigue. However, based on these results, the herb’s physical and hormonal benefits also look pretty good.

You see, Panax Ginseng significantly increased the locomotor activity of stressed rats but did not have any significant benefits on the rats who were basically just chilling. Why is that? Well, my theory is that Panax Ginseng can help the body adapt to incoming stress or fatigue. Without some sort of stress, however, there’s simply no reason to take it (apart from its other benefits, of course).

Optimize the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis

I’ll be showing you multiple studies here so pay attention.

First up is a 1996 research on the effects of Panax Ginseng on male fertility. Here, they used 2 experimental groups consisting of patients with sperm issues and a 3rd group acting as control. According to the results of the study, Panax Ginseng was able to:

• increase number of sperm
• improve sperm motility
• increase total and free testosterone, DHT, FSH and LH levels (*take note of these hormones)
• decrease prolactin (**take note of this one, too)

All of these results are linked to the function of the HPG axis. In men, the HPG axis is basically a system of endocrine glands that manage the production of testosterone and sperm. In particular, *LH and FSH travel the blood stream and respectively trigger testosterone synthesis and sperm production once they reach the testes. On the other hand, **prolactin is what inhibits the release of LH and FSH which, in effect, disrupts the flow of the entire HPG axis.

That being said, it can be concluded that maybe Panax Ginseng has its hands all over the HPG axis. I’m saying maybe because, frankly, the research is old and outdated and I just want newer evidence.

Does Ginseng increase testosterone?

Ginseng can help with cAMP levels, which, according to one study, boosted hormone, LH and DHT levels in men with low sperm counts. [9] However, one study show that testosterone (and growth hormone) levels are not significantly raised by Ginseng, thus eliminating the possibility that Ginseng helps with erectile dysfunction through a hormonal route. [7]

I have never read of any bodybuilder, for example, using Ginseng to boost testosterone.

Conclusion

Ginseng’s performance has been so outstanding that one could really qualify it as a food in terms of safety and beneficial properties.  Furthermore, and as we’ll show below, Ginseng seems tailor-made for the middle-aged and beyond guy battling some aging-onset maladies, including loss of erectile strength, mental sharpness and insulin resistance.  It’s not an inaccurate characterization to say that Ginseng is a turn-back-the-clock supplement in most of the key areas of health that males are interested in.

NOTE:  American Ginseng has many excellent properties as well, but we are only talking about the Korean variety here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Panax Ginseng to improve erectile function?

Most men begin experiencing improvements in erectile function within 4-8 weeks of consistent Panax Ginseng supplementation, with optimal benefits typically occurring after 8-12 weeks. Clinical studies show that red Korean ginseng (a form of Panax Ginseng) can improve erectile rigidity and sexual satisfaction by 60-70% after 8 weeks of daily use at 900mg-3g dosages. The timeline varies based on the severity of erectile dysfunction, overall cardiovascular health, and individual response to ginsenosides. Men with mild ED often see faster improvements compared to those with moderate to severe dysfunction.

What’s the optimal Panax Ginseng dosage for testosterone support?

The optimal dosage for testosterone support ranges from 1-3 grams daily of standardized Panax Ginseng extract (4-7% ginsenosides). Most clinical studies showing testosterone benefits used 1.5-3g daily for 8-12 weeks. For general energy and sexual health, 600mg-1g daily may be sufficient. Korean red ginseng tends to be more potent, often requiring lower doses (600mg-1.5g daily). Start with 600-900mg daily and increase gradually based on response and tolerance. Always take with food to minimize potential stomach upset.

Does Panax Ginseng actually increase testosterone levels?

Panax Ginseng’s effects on testosterone are modest and primarily occur in men with stress-related hormone suppression or age-related decline. Studies show testosterone increases of 5-15% in stressed men, with more significant improvements in men over 40. The mechanism appears to be through stress reduction and improved testicular function rather than direct hormonal stimulation. Healthy young men with normal testosterone levels typically see minimal increases. Ginseng is more effective for supporting overall sexual health and energy than for dramatic testosterone boosting.

Can I take Panax Ginseng with other erectile dysfunction medications?

You should never combine Panax Ginseng with ED medications like Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra without medical supervision. Both can lower blood pressure and affect nitric oxide pathways, potentially causing dangerous hypotension. Ginseng may also interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, and certain antidepressants. Always consult your healthcare provider before combining ginseng with any medications, especially those affecting cardiovascular function or blood pressure.

What’s the difference between Panax Ginseng and other ginseng types for sexual health?

Panax Ginseng (Korean/Asian ginseng) is the most researched form for sexual health and erectile function, containing the highest concentrations of active ginsenosides (Rb1, Rg1, Re). American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) has different ginsenoside profiles and is less studied for sexual health. Siberian Ginseng isn’t true ginseng and lacks the same active compounds. For erectile function and testosterone support, stick with Panax Ginseng, specifically Korean red ginseng, which has the most clinical validation.

Are there any side effects of taking Panax Ginseng daily?

Panax Ginseng is generally well-tolerated, but some men may experience side effects including insomnia (especially if taken late in the day), headaches, digestive upset, nervousness or anxiety, blood pressure changes, and potential interactions with medications. Side effects are more common with higher doses (>3g daily) or poor-quality products. To minimize side effects, start with lower doses, take with food, avoid late-day dosing, and choose standardized extracts from reputable manufacturers.

How does Panax Ginseng improve energy levels and combat fatigue?

Panax Ginseng combats fatigue through multiple mechanisms: supporting adrenal function and stress response, improving cellular energy production (ATP synthesis), enhancing oxygen utilization and circulation, modulating cortisol levels, and supporting neurotransmitter balance. The ginsenosides act as adaptogens, helping your body better manage physical and mental stress. Energy improvements typically appear within 2-4 weeks of consistent use, with peak benefits after 6-8 weeks. Unlike caffeine, ginseng provides sustained energy without crashes.

Can Panax Ginseng help with premature ejaculation and sexual performance?

Yes, Panax Ginseng can help improve overall sexual performance, including some aspects of ejaculatory control. Studies show improvements in sexual satisfaction, arousal, and orgasmic function. The mechanisms include enhanced blood flow to sexual organs, reduced performance anxiety through stress reduction, improved overall sexual confidence, and better endurance and stamina. However, for severe premature ejaculation, ginseng works best as part of a comprehensive approach including behavioral techniques and possibly medical treatment.

Is Korean Red Ginseng better than regular Panax Ginseng for men’s health?

Korean Red Ginseng is Panax Ginseng that’s been steamed and dried, creating unique ginsenosides (like Rg3 and Rh2) not found in fresh ginseng. This processing often makes red ginseng more potent for sexual health and energy benefits. Most clinical studies on erectile function used red ginseng specifically. Red ginseng tends to be more expensive but may be more effective at lower doses. Both forms are beneficial, but red ginseng has stronger research support for men’s sexual health applications.

How long can I safely take Panax Ginseng continuously?

Panax Ginseng can be taken continuously for months to years with proper dosing and monitoring. Traditional use suggests taking ginseng for 2-3 months, then taking a 2-4 week break to prevent tolerance, though this isn’t strictly necessary. Some practitioners recommend cycling: 8-12 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off. Long-term safety data shows minimal concerns with appropriate dosages (<3g daily). Monitor for side effects and consider periodic breaks if benefits seem to diminish or if you experience overstimulation.

Can Panax Ginseng interact with pre-workout supplements or caffeine?

Panax Ginseng can be combined with caffeine and most pre-workout ingredients, but monitor for overstimulation. The combination may enhance energy and focus but could increase anxiety or jitters in sensitive individuals. Ginseng’s adaptogenic properties may actually help smooth out caffeine’s stimulant effects. However, avoid combining with other stimulants if you have cardiovascular issues. Take ginseng earlier in the day (morning) if combining with pre-workout supplements to prevent sleep disruption.

Does Panax Ginseng work better for older men or younger men?

Panax Ginseng tends to be more effective for men over 35-40, particularly those experiencing age-related decline in energy, sexual function, or stress resilience. Older men often have more pronounced benefits due to declining hormone levels and increased stress burden. Younger men with normal energy and sexual function may see minimal improvements, though ginseng can still support performance during high-stress periods or intense training. The adaptogenic benefits become more apparent as natural resilience declines with age.

What should I look for when buying Panax Ginseng supplements?

When purchasing Panax Ginseng, look for: standardized extract with guaranteed ginsenoside content (4-7%), third-party testing for purity and potency, organic certification when possible, reputable manufacturer with GMP certification, clear labeling of Panax Ginseng species (not just “ginseng”), appropriate dosage per serving (300-1000mg per capsule), and avoid products with excessive fillers or artificial ingredients. Korean or Chinese sources are typically highest quality. Expect to pay more for quality ginseng—very cheap products are often ineffective or adulterated.